Decoder with Nilay Patel
Why GM ditched CarPlay, with software boss Baris Cetinok
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- GM's decision to drop Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is rooted in the need for more control over the automotive software experience.
- A shift in GM's organizational structure emphasizes agile product management and collaborative work to enhance software development.
- Streamlining the vehicle's electronic architecture is critical for reducing complexity and improving the automotive user experience.
- Investing in an integrated user experience and voice-activated systems can potentially redefine how consumers interact with their vehicles.
Summary
GM's Decision to Drop CarPlay and Android Auto
Baris Cetinok, GM's SVP of Software and Services, discusses GM's controversial choice to eliminate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from most electric vehicles. Although he did not make the decision, he defends it by arguing that GM needs more control over user experience and software integration to drive innovation. His stance is that by building their software platform, Altify, GM can create a more seamless and optimized driving experience that is tailored directly to their cars and customer needs. This decision is framed as a necessary pivot for GM to fully embrace the integrated future of automotive technology.
Rethinking Software Management in Cars
The conversation delves into the complexities of managing software in vehicles, especially as GM transitions from traditional vehicles to software-driven electric vehicles (EVs). Cetinok explains the organizational changes at GM, including a focus on agile product management, program management, and design to create a functional and innovative software development structure. He emphasizes the importance of having experts lead respective domains, thereby ensuring an efficient flow of ideas and execution across diverse departments.
Challenges of Integration and Architecture
Cetinok highlights the challenges GM faces in integrating software across a fleet of different vehicle architectures. He discusses the goal of reducing the number of electrical control units (ECUs) to create a more streamlined setup that allows for over-the-air updates and better performance. The interview also addresses the need for a robust structure that can accommodate the varied requirements of GM's extensive vehicle lineup while maintaining usability and reliability for customers.
The Future of Automotive Software and User Experience
In discussing the future, Cetinok elaborates on how GM is investing in more integrated and intuitive user experiences. He envisions a system where the vehicle learns from user interaction, simplifying processes like navigation and media playback through more voice integration rather than requiring numerous app interactions. He draws comparisons with existing paradigms in tech and gaming where seamless integration and system updates are crucial for consumer satisfaction.
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Show notes
Today, I’m talking with Baris Cetinok, who is in charge of all the software in the cars that GM makes, which is a lot of cars. And if you’ve been following any of the drama in the world of car software, you know it also means Baris is the guy who has to defend GM’s decision to drop Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from most of its cars, especially EVs.
I’ve had versions of this conversation with the CEOs of car companies before, but Baris is in charge of actually building this stuff. So we really got into the weeds here on what this looks like, the major trade-offs, and why he thinks it’s ultimately the right path for GM.
Links:
GM names new leaders of software organization | The Detroit News
GM is cutting off access to Apple CarPlay & Android Auto for its future EVs | The Verge
Will GM Regret Kicking Apple CarPlay off the Dashboard? | Bloomberg
Rivian CEO: CarPlay isn’t going to happen | Decoder
Volvo CEO thinks dropping CarPlay is a mistake | Decoder
GM Ultifi software platform will roll out in 2023 | The Verge
Android Auto vs. Android Automotive vs. Google Automotive Services | Android Police
GM plans another big Super Cruise hands-free expansion | The Verge
GM will start making money on EVs this year | The Verge
How GM plans to beat Google, Apple at car software | Motor Trend
Transcript: https://www.theverge.com/e/24049622
Credits:
Decoder is a production of The Verge and part of the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Our producers are Kate Cox and Nick Statt. Our editor is Callie Wright. Our supervising producer is Liam James.
The Decoder music is by Breakmaster Cylinder.
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